GoVerticalís guided Slack Packing Tours on the Garden Route mean you get to hike smart not hard. We guide you on rewarding multi-day trails eg. the Whale Trail, Garden Route Coastal Adventure Trail, Knysna Adventure Trail & Namaqualand flower trail, all you need to do is carry a day pack and we transport your luggage from one accommodation venue to the next. Email us for details

GARDEN ROUTE GUIDED SLACK PACKING

THE TRAIL

The De Hoop reserve is a classic example of natures ability to weave diverse elements & unlikely habitats into a rich tapestry of unrivalled splendor. This unspoiled wilderness area was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status for itís magnificent natural beauty & concentration of rare† endemic fynbos. Join GoVertical for a 5 day exploration of the diverse Cape Floral Kingdom & coastal marine reserve.

Initially the hike winds through rare fynbos, over lime stone hills & rugged sandstone where the highest point in the trail, Potberg hill 611m allows you uninterrupted views of the Langeberg mountains, coastal plains & turquoise ocean. The fynbos & protea are plentiful, if youíre lucky, Cape Mountain Zebra, Bontebok or the endangered Cape Vultures may be seen.

The next 3 days are a varied exploration of the wind sculpted coastal cliffs, white sandy beaches and intertidal pools bristling with sea creatures. If youíre joining us from June to December itís very likely that you'll be able to spot the Southern Right Whales nursing their young in the clear bay in easy view of the shore. Thereís plenty of time to spend swimming, snorkeling, exploring caves, studying the rock pools and enjoying the sun while on the hike.

ACCOMMODATION

Cape style cottages, beds, mattresses, hot showers and your GoVertical guides will prepare all meals for you while you sit back and enjoy the views from the well appointed cottages.

SEASONAL ATTRACTIONS

The trail is beautiful year round. Whale watching from June to December. Fynbos flowers are best from July-September. A popular trail, usually booked a year in advance, ask us for dates in 2013.

GoVertical Mountaineering Adventures attend to all the logistics involved. So you can thoroughly enjoy yourself we can provide the following in our Garden Route Slack Packing Adventures:

∑An experienced & qualified GoVertical Mountaineering guide, who will make sure you donít miss any of the good bits, is able to impart information about the trail, flora, fauna, geology & provide the appropriate response† if there is a medical or emergency situation.

∑Pick up and drop off from start or finish of trail

∑Accommodation before and after the trail in local lodges.

∑All meals on the trail

∑Reservations & Park fees

∑Equipment hire

THE TRAIL

South Africaís† beautiful Knysna Lagoon with the striking Knysna Heads is the start for this varied Slack Packing Adventure Trail. Hop into GoVerticalís canoes to explore this fascinating marine environment where sea creatures, rare birds, diverse habitat and awesome views are interrupted for a leisurely Adventurers picnic and a refreshing swim in the Knysna Lagoon. Relax while watching a spectacular ocean sunset at Brenton before dinner.

Beachwear is the dresscode for day two when weíll take some time to hunt for the Brenton Blue Butterfly in the fynbos reserve before hitting the beach. Depending on tides we head to Fisherman's walk with its spectacular views of its sea cliffs or clamber down onto the hidden beaches. Both options wind past the ocean sculpture of Castle rock and

THE WHALE TRAIL - DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE - 5 DAYS

onto the beach that stretches from Brenton to Buffalo Bay and on to the fabulous Goukamma Reserve. You can explore the intertidal zone, swim in the clear ocean & watch the antics of the endangered Black Oyster Catcher on this quiet beach. Relax & enjoy ocean views with a cocktail at Buffalo Bay before checking in to the nights accommodation.

The fossilised Groenvlei sand dune is the site of our last days traverse through the diversity of coastal environments that the Garden Route has to offer. You'll walk through shady tunnels carved through ancient Milkwood forests, see the rock formations known as the oyster beds at low tide on the beach, hike across the spine of the highest fossilised sand dune on South Africa's coast & descend to Groenvlei a fresh water lake with an abundance of bird life.

ACCOMMODATION

Both nights accommodation is in local lodges with fantastic views. Dinner & breakfast are included,† lunches are provided on trail. All your gear will be transported to the lodge ahead of you. You will only carry a light day pack.